Dynamics of a Caste Movement: The Rajbansis of North Bengal 1910-1947

Dynamics of a Caste Movement explores the Rajbansi community's attempts to establish themselves as Kshatriyas in Bengal in the early twentieth century, examining the complexities of the movement in the context of contemporary socio-political events. The caste system remains significant in contemporary times, and the colonization of the country and the response of indigenous society provided a new impetus to mobilization along caste lines. The Rajbansis constituted the most predominant section of the local Hindu population but were placed low in the hierarchy. The study explores the formation of the Rajbansi identity, socio-cultural and economic profile, efforts towards Kshatriyaization, and the legitimization of their social and political rights.

Format: Hardback
Length: 153 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2024
Publisher: Manohar Publishers and Distributors

Dynamics of a Caste Movement: The Rajbansi Community and the Quest for Kshatriya Identity in Bengal
The Rajbansi caste movement in Bengal during the first half of the twentieth century is a fascinating and complex story that sheds light on the dynamics of caste dynamics in India. This book examines the complexities of the movement in the context of contemporary socio-political events, highlighting the enduring significance of the caste system in modern times.

The colonization of the country and the response of indigenous society to the manoeuvres of colonial rulers provided a new impetus to mobilization along caste lines in the nineteenth and early twentieth century Bengal, as well as in the rest of India. The Rajbansis constituted the most predominant section of the local Hindu population in the districts of north Bengal, but were yet placed quite low in the hierarchy.

This study explores the formation of the Rajbansi identity, the socio-cultural and economic profile of the community, their efforts towards Kshatriyaization, and the legitimization of their social and political rights. Using Rajbansi caste literature and government records, the author delves into the various aspects of the movement and provides a comprehensive analysis of its impact on Indian society.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of caste in shaping the social and political landscape of Bengal. The caste system has been a persistent feature of Indian society for centuries, and it continues to play a significant role in determining social status, access to resources, and political power. The Rajbansi caste movement was a response to the perceived marginalization and discrimination faced by the community, and it sought to establish a distinct identity and gain social and political recognition.

The Rajbansis were a community of farmers and artisans who had a long history in the region. They were traditionally considered to be a lower caste, but they had a strong sense of identity and pride. They were known for their hard work, dedication, and loyalty to their community. However, they faced numerous challenges in their quest for Kshatriyaization.

One of the major challenges was the caste hierarchy. The caste system was based on a strict hierarchy, with each caste having its own set of privileges and responsibilities. The Rajbansis were placed quite low in the hierarchy, and they were often subjected to discrimination and exploitation. This led to a sense of resentment and frustration among the community, and it fueled their desire for social and political change.

The Rajbansi caste movement was led by a group of educated and influential individuals who were committed to the cause of Kshatriyaization. They organized various protests, rallies, and campaigns to raise awareness about the issue and to demand social and political recognition. They also sought to establish educational institutions and social welfare programs to improve the lives of the community.

Despite their efforts, the Rajbansi caste movement faced numerous challenges. The caste hierarchy was deeply entrenched, and it was difficult to break down. The government was also reluctant to address the issue, as it was seen as a threat to the stability of the country. This led to a sense of frustration and disillusionment among the community, and it contributed to the decline of the movement.

However, the Rajbansi caste movement has had a lasting impact on Indian society. It has highlighted the importance of caste in shaping the social and political landscape of the country, and it has inspired other communities to fight for their rights. The movement has also contributed to the development of a more inclusive and democratic society, as it has challenged the traditional caste hierarchy and promoted social equality.

In conclusion, Dynamics of a Caste Movement: The Rajbansi Community and the Quest for Kshatriya Identity in Bengal is a fascinating and complex book that sheds light on the dynamics of caste dynamics in India. The book explores the complexities of the Rajbansi caste movement in the context of contemporary socio-political events, highlighting the enduring significance of the caste system in modern times. The author provides a comprehensive analysis of the movement and its impact on Indian society, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and politics of India.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 154 x 226 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788173045097